06106, Hartford, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06106, Hartford, Connecticut is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Hartford, CT (ZIP Code 06106): A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Accessing high-quality care close to home is paramount. This review analyzes the hospitals near Hartford, CT (ZIP Code 06106), focusing on their lung cancer treatment capabilities, with specific data points to aid informed decision-making. The information is current as of October 26, 2023, and relies on publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and reputable healthcare databases.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

Hartford Hospital, located at 80 Seymour Street, Hartford, CT 06106, is a major player in the region. It is a flagship hospital for Hartford HealthCare, a large integrated health system. Hartford Hospital boasts a 4-star CMS rating. This rating considers various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. This indicates a generally good level of care, but it's important to remember that star ratings are just one piece of the puzzle.

Saint Francis Hospital, part of Trinity Health Of New England and located at 114 Woodland Street, Hartford, CT 06105, is another prominent hospital in the area. It also holds a 4-star CMS rating. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including cancer care.

**Emergency Room Wait Times**

Emergency room wait times can be a critical factor, especially in a medical emergency. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, publicly available data provides general trends. Hartford Hospital's ER wait times tend to be around 20-30 minutes, though this can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Saint Francis Hospital's ER wait times are comparable, typically falling within a similar range. It is always advisable to call ahead or check online for the most up-to-date information.

**Lung Cancer Specialty Centers and Programs**

Both Hartford Hospital and Saint Francis Hospital have dedicated cancer centers. Hartford Hospital's Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment. They provide services including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive care. They also participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies.

Saint Francis Hospital’s Smilow Cancer Hospital Care Center offers a similarly comprehensive approach. They also have a multidisciplinary team specializing in lung cancer. They focus on providing personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. They also offer access to clinical trials.

**Surgical Oncology and Thoracic Surgery**

Surgical intervention is often a crucial component of lung cancer treatment. Both hospitals have experienced thoracic surgeons specializing in the surgical removal of lung tumors. Hartford Hospital's surgical oncology team performs various procedures, including minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), which can lead to faster recovery times. Saint Francis Hospital also offers VATS and other advanced surgical options. The specific experience and expertise of the surgeons should be a key consideration when choosing a hospital.

**Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy**

Medical oncologists are central to the treatment of lung cancer, often managing chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Both hospitals have medical oncology departments staffed by experienced physicians. They administer chemotherapy regimens based on the latest treatment guidelines. They also offer access to advanced therapies, including targeted drugs that are designed to attack specific cancer cells, and immunotherapy, which harnesses the body's own immune system to fight cancer.

**Radiation Oncology**

Radiation therapy is another critical treatment modality. Both Hartford Hospital and Saint Francis Hospital have advanced radiation oncology departments. They offer various radiation techniques, including external beam radiation therapy and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which delivers high doses of radiation to the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. The availability of advanced radiation technology is a significant factor in treatment planning.

**Diagnostic Capabilities**

Accurate and timely diagnosis is essential. Both hospitals have advanced imaging capabilities, including CT scans, PET scans, and MRI, which are used to detect and stage lung cancer. They also have experienced radiologists who specialize in interpreting these images. Access to comprehensive diagnostic services is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

**Supportive Care Services**

Cancer treatment often requires a holistic approach. Both hospitals offer a range of supportive care services. This includes pain management, nutritional counseling, psychological support, and physical therapy. These services are designed to help patients manage the side effects of treatment and improve their overall quality of life.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Both Hartford Hospital and Saint Francis Hospital offer telehealth services for certain aspects of lung cancer care. This can include virtual consultations with oncologists, remote monitoring of patients' symptoms, and virtual support groups. Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from the hospital or have difficulty traveling. Telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits and patient satisfaction scores, are typically available on the hospital's website.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Participation in clinical trials can provide patients with access to innovative therapies. Both hospitals are involved in clinical trials for lung cancer treatment. This allows patients to potentially benefit from cutting-edge research and new treatment options. The availability of clinical trials can be a significant advantage for patients.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare. Both hospitals strive to provide a positive patient experience. Patient satisfaction scores are often available on hospital websites or through third-party rating services. These scores reflect patients' experiences with various aspects of care, including communication with doctors, nursing care, and overall satisfaction.

**Cost and Insurance Coverage**

Healthcare costs can be a significant concern. The cost of lung cancer treatment can vary widely depending on the type of treatment, the length of stay in the hospital, and other factors. It is essential to understand your insurance coverage and the potential out-of-pocket costs. Both hospitals accept a wide range of insurance plans. It is advisable to contact your insurance provider and the hospital's billing department to determine your specific coverage and estimated costs.

**Accreditation and Certifications**

Accreditation and certifications can indicate a hospital's commitment to quality care. Both Hartford Hospital and Saint Francis Hospital hold accreditations from reputable organizations, such as the Commission on Cancer (CoC). These accreditations signify that the hospitals meet specific standards for cancer care.

**Community Outreach and Support Groups**

Both hospitals offer community outreach programs and support groups for lung cancer patients and their families. These programs provide education, emotional support, and resources. These services can be invaluable for patients navigating the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.

**Conclusion**

For residents near ZIP Code 06106, both Hartford Hospital and Saint Francis Hospital offer comprehensive lung cancer care. Both hospitals boast 4-star CMS ratings, indicating a generally good level of care. Hartford Hospital’s Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center and Saint Francis Hospital’s Smilow Cancer Hospital Care Center both provide multidisciplinary teams, advanced treatment options, and access to clinical trials. When making a decision, patients should consider factors like physician expertise, access to specific therapies, ER wait times, and personal preferences. It is also crucial to discuss your individual needs and preferences with your primary care physician and oncologist to determine the best course of action.